Political Leaders Condemn Violence In East Timor

Political leaders condemn violence in Timor-Leste

In a meeting held at the United Nation's headquarters in Dili on Saturday, the leaders of all political parties in Timor-Leste strongly condemned the violence that has troubled the new nation since Monday.

The meeting was the seventh meeting convened by the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) with the aim of providing a space for frank and honest exchanges of information between all political parties that contested the June 30 parliamentary leaders.

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, who moderates the meetings, noted that the leaders representing all 16 registered political parties stated that violence should not be used as a mechanism to voice discontent about the formation of the new government.

Mr Khare also expressed satisfaction about the fact that Fretilin had clearly reiterated that they would not abandon the parliament.

The SRSG reminded the political party representatives of their engagement, in the Political Party Accord signed prior to the elections, to ensure a meaningful role for the opposition, and for those in the opposition to make constructive contributions to parliament such that it responds to the needs of the people.

The SRSG confirmed that the United Nations will support government efforts to ensure that the security situation improves and that humanitarian assistance is provided to mitigate the effects of the violence in the eastern districts.

As of Friday afternoon, UNMIT has been able to confirm reports of 142 houses have been burned in Viqueque and Baucau districts since Tuesday. UNMIT is currently assessing how many people have been displaced due to the violence.

UNMIT is coordinating with the Government of Timor-Leste to provide a humanitarian response to provide food and shelter in the coming day.

ENDS

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